A Stoke-on-Trent MP is urging the government to step in after Royal Stafford’s closure. This move comes as the ceramics industry faces tough challenges and job losses.
Royal Stafford, a pottery brand since 1845, shut down this week. Over 80 jobs were lost due to rising energy costs and fewer orders. It’s a tough blow for the workers and their families.
David Williams raised this issue in the House of Commons. He asked for a meeting with Energy Secretary Ed Miliband to discuss urgent support for the sector.
He expressed concern for local businesses struggling with high energy bills. The closure of Royal Stafford is a significant loss for the area, especially since it’s been around for nearly 200 years.
Energy Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh showed sympathy for the situation. She emphasized the need to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels to protect jobs in the future.
While she acknowledged the job losses, she mentioned the government’s clean power mission. This aims to lower energy bills by breaking free from global fossil fuel markets.
Meanwhile, Stoke-on-Trent City Council leader Jane Ashworth is seeking an urgent meeting with Royal Stafford’s operator. The company’s directors tried everything to save the business but couldn’t make it work.
Royal Stafford’s closure is a sad chapter for a brand that has been part of the community for so long. The directors announced the closure due to a sharp drop in orders and rising energy prices.
They’ve engaged an insolvency firm to handle the liquidation process. A closing down sale is planned, and more details will be shared soon. Anyone with pending orders will be contacted as well.
It’s a tough time for everyone involved, and the community is feeling the impact deeply.
